Indian Diplomacy’s Special Role in Navigating a Multipolar World

New Delhi- The global order today is shaped by proxy wars replacing direct conflicts, China’s rise as a rival to the US in military, economic, and technological spheres, and India’s emergence as a strategic power maintaining autonomy in international affairs.

India must leverage its diplomatic strengths to build bilateral ties rooted in security and economic cooperation, in a world increasingly split by regional and ideological alliances. Participation in forums like BRICS, SCO, and the US-led Quad reflects India’s unique ability to balance diverse partnerships while staying true to its non-alignment principle.

This strategy has enhanced India’s global image as a champion of peace and development. Recognising the era of multipolarity, India’s diplomatic mission is to prevent a return to Cold War blocs. The approach must combine flexibility, strategic patience, and foresight—ensuring that diplomacy remains both pragmatic and imaginative.

The Middle East illustrates the challenge: India must manage relations with Israel, Iran, and Saudi Arabia despite their opposing alignments. Balancing ties with Russia and the US poses another test. Prime Minister Modi’s participation in global forums, and his personal rapport with leaders, underscores India’s rising influence, though it sometimes creates misgivings in Washington.

India retains the sovereign right to define its friends and rivals, guided by security imperatives. The China-Pakistan nexus, rooted in border tensions and cross-border terrorism, remains the top threat. Diplomacy must also address misperceptions in the US, especially regarding Pakistan’s role in exporting terrorism.

India and the US, as the world’s largest democracies, share responsibility for promoting peace, particularly in the Middle East. Modi’s emphasis on self-reliance, “Make in India,” and bilateralism without permanent alignment, coupled with India’s peace-oriented stance on conflicts from Ukraine to Gaza, reflects a carefully balanced strategy.

Domestically, strong governance and internal security reinforce India’s international standing. A united approach between Centre and states is key to sustaining stability and projecting strength abroad.

Ultimately, India’s guiding principle has long been “Nation First,” well before America adopted its “America First” policy. By putting national security and economic priorities at the core of foreign policy, India has managed to strengthen ties with both major and smaller nations, building its reputation as a confident global power in a multipolar world.

(The writer is a former Director, Intelligence Bureau)

--IANS